"The analysts looked at 23 malls throughout the region as part of research into how older malls are able to survive in an environment in which online retailing as well as newer lifestyle centers offer increasingly stiff competition," according to article.

The Cherry Hill Mall, on the other hand, was identified as "dominant." The King of Prussia Mall in Pennsylvania was another such dominant mall.

"The $200 million that Pennsylvania Real Estate Investment Trust spent on Cherry Hill Mall in South Jersey is a prime example of a mall owner that forged ahead with adding more space and upgrading the property as a way to stay competitive. The result was landing Nordstrom and a boost in foot traffic," the report adds.